Question: What is your voice?Answer: Your voice, Cliff Snider, is not necessarily a spoken one. For you, it is what you do not say with words as much as it is with emotion. Your voice is the loudest through your eyes and through your caring heart. It's what breaks down the walls of protection that are built by troubled spirits. It is that gentle personality that wins others' confidence so that when your vocal voice is engaged, you are able to change hearts and lives.

The real Santa!

The real Santa! To my respected friend Santa Cliff, I am writing this to you for a reason. I would like to say thank you.When you began working with me at Kissing Tree Studio I am sure you had no idea of the artistic journey that would ensue. Yes, I am a photographer, however I am an artist first. This has meant my expectations of you as a Santa were not going to be simple and sometime certainly not easy. I have asked much of you as my artwork unfolded and evolved. You have not only followed my creativity (which lives within my mind ) but you have also taken the time to try to understand the art that has burst from within me. There have been sooo many details and demands that I have asked of you of these creative years. You worked very hard, thought deeply and have given your me such consistent professionalism. This has not gone unnoticed nor have I taken your efforts for granted. I think the end artwork speaks volumes as to how hard you have worked and how much you bring to each and every session. From one artist to another, I must tell you, it is not easy to follow or even understand another artists thoughts or dreams. You have been such a key figure and person in unlocking much of my work.

The other side of my thoughts are more personal. Your kindness and willingness to "communicate" with both children and parents alike is unmatched. You are forever tactful and gentle when sharing the real meaning of Christmas with everyone you meet. You call your mission your Santa Ministry and I have seen this first hand. You are loved by so many and you have earned this love and trust. The amount of love you share with people on a daily basis is not only a joy to witness but and honor to experience. I have learned a great deal from you over these years. Your friendship has meant so much to me.

So in summary, not only do I feel I have the great honor to work with a true craftsman of the Santa profession, I also am humbled to weekly be in the presence of a truly great man and person. Thank you for all the joy you bring to my art, countless children and this world Santa Cliff! Your love and purity of spirit has such a ripple effect. You will continue to positively impact many more lives in the future. I know He admires who you have become...from my heart Cliff...thank you!

Cliff IS Santa Claus! As an artist, it has been my privilege for the past few years to portray Cliff Snider, as Santa, on canvas. I am still struck by the fact that he literally embodies the 'spirit' of Christmas which makes his portrayal of this beloved character completely believable. He is also the personification of every wonderful description of Santa Claus you have ever heard, and yes, his eyes really do twinkle! There is no monetary value that can be placed on the joy he brings to any event fortunate enough to have him. He brings with him something which cannot be taught or learned. It is the unique gift of himself, and as for me... I believe HE REALLY IS SANTA CLAUS!

Dan Reany, Producer - The 700 Club - TCBN

“I’ve met quite a few Santas over the years, but none embody the Spirit of Christmas like Santa Cliff Snider. I produced a story about him for The 700 Club in 2007 and it has aired every year since, because Santa Cliff loves Christmas like no other person I have ever known.”

Dan Reany, Producer - The 700 ClubThe Christian Broadcasting Network

Ralph J. McDonald, Gallatin, TN

“Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus, and his friends know him as Santa Cliff Snider.”

“Santa Cliff is Santa Claus! He has visited with my family for more than a dozen years and has brought joy and memories that will last a lifetime.”

Vicky Jarrett, Past Editor - North Carolina Magazine

“I’ve found that Cliff has the heart of Santa. This story of how Cliff became Santa and the lives he has touched has warmed my heart, and now I’m sure it will yours as well.”

Vicky Jarrett, Past EditorOur State MagazineNorth Carolina

Cara J. Reische, Artist

"Spending time with Santa Cliff is like stepping back into childhood. He has been a part of our family's life for years for private parties, surprise events, and as a friend. Our six-year-old daughter has grown up feeling a close connection to Santa Cliff, and the memories he has helped create for her are priceless."

Linda Hyatt Cancel, Artist

"People of all ages instantly recognize and are drawn to Santa Cliff, all seasons of the year. The gentleness and kindness of his sour and spirit are manifested in the authentic, beautiful, and meaningful wardrobe of Santa Cliff Kringle.But what I admire most about him, is his unceasing commitment to faithfully pray for those struggling with feelings of rejection, sickness, and other life challenges, especially children with terminal illness. It is deeply touching to know that he is on call 24/7/365 days a year for thee precious ones."

My "Poppy Claus"

"I think having a grandfather who is Santa Claus is one of the best things in the world. I always look up to him and I'm quite sure other people do also. I don't know how he does it, but he can make someone smile with a wink, or a smile, or maybe even a hug. He is a wonderful Santa, Poppy, and Grandfather.When I talk about him I could say so many positive things. He believes in God, goes to church, reads his Bible, and prays also. Every Christmas he is so kind and giving to others because that's his favorite time of year, and the true meaning of Christmas is celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ and giving to others. That is what my Poppy Claus has taught me."

Robby Snider (My grandson)Age 10 (When he wrote this, 18 now)

Douglas Rowe, Artist

"Cliff Snider REALLY IS SANTA CLAUS! If you don't believe it, just go out to dinner with him in July when Christmas is still six months away. Watch the kid's faces and you will believe too. His heart is in it 24/7/365.Santa Cliff has a huge heart for, and an incredible ministry to kids from ages two to ninety-two. In addition to material gifts, he passes along to them the most valuable gift any of us can receive; Christ's gift of salvation."